June 16, 2011: The time has come - the EU Commission has issued the first stage of the EU Motor Regulation M640/2009. From this date, only electric motors that comply with international energy efficiency class IE2 or higher in continuous operation and in the power range from 0.75 kW to 375 kW may be placed on the market in the European Union. The aim of the EU motor regulation M640/2009 is to increase the energy efficiency of electric drives. According to the ZVEI, 38 billion kilowatt hours could be saved in Germany alone through the intelligent use of electric drive technology in industry, commerce and public facilities.